All my thoughts about digital technology, robotics and innovation.

Gadgets

AmazonBasics Microwave simplifies cooking by letting you microwave using your voice and an Echo device. Just say, “Alexa, reheat one cup of coffee,” and Alexa will start reheating with the appropriate power and time settings. Quick-cook presets mean there’s no need to guess cook times or heat levels when you’re defrosting vegetables or microwaving a potato. Plus, Alexa is always getting smarter and adding new presets.

Of course, this isn’t the first microwave with Alexa voice control features, other companies like GE, Whirlpool, Kenmore, LG and Samsung have either made or are working on appliances with Amazon’s cooking Skill. But this is the first Amazon-branded microwave, meaning it’s hardware from the company itself and offers better integration with Alexa. The AmazonBasics brand also tends to be cheaper than competitors, giving consumers greater options.

And, you would need to set your keyboard to region USA otherwise, some keys are not possible e.g. \ key will be # instead in UK. As you probably can figure out, the keyboard is for heavy Linux/Unix users with the love for Vi/Vim.

Roam Robotics has unveiled an exoskeleton built expressly to reduce the burden on your knees. Sensors in the exoskeleton gauge your intent and use a mix of air bladders and fabric actuators to automatically tweak the torque in your knees. There’s a manual option, too, if you know what motion to expect.

Roam primarily pitches the exoskeleton as an assist for older skiiers, particularly those who might have muscle fatigue or knee problems. However, it also sees this as a bionic helper for downhill enthusiasts in their prime. It could help you carve turns that would normally be difficult, let you stay on the slopes for longer, or just reduce the soreness when you’re done.

InfiniteUSB is an open chain of USB ports, granting an unlimited supply of open slots!

Whenever a new InfiniteUSB is plugged in, a new USB port will be created. Instead of forcing you to constantly hot swap devices into that one port, InfiniteUSB keeps all your cables connected, with only one port from your laptop.